Whether you’re new to CBD vaping or a seasoned connoisseur, the terminology can be tricky to decipher. Our vaping and CBD glossary cuts through the jargon with concise definitions and airtight abbreviations to explain all things vaping and CBD.
The first cannabinoid to be discovered, anandamide is produced by the body and interacts with the CB1 cannabinoid receptor. These receptors are responsible for mental and physiological processes.
The amount of a substance that enters the bloodstream and can be used by the body.
When a substance behaves in two different ways as the concentration increases.
A CBD product with more than one cannabinoid, but not all occur naturally within the hemp plant. For example, a product that has had the THC removed is broad-spectrum.
A non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant as CBDa (see the next term).
A naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant and the precursor to cannabidiol (CBD).
A cannabinoid found in the cannabis sativa plant and some varieties of industrial hemp as its precursor CBGa.
Chemical components found in the cannabis plant. They include THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (Cannabidiol), CBG (Cannabigerol), CBN, CBC (Cannabichromene) and THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin). As of 2021, there are 113 known phytocannabinoids.
The total volume of cannabinoids found in a cannabis product, which includes the sum of THC, CBD, CBN, CBC, and CBG. Lab testing is the only method that can calculate the CBV percentage.
A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid with neuroprotectant properties.
A group of plants used to produce fibres, medicine, food supplements, and recreational drugs.
Oil derived from cannabis plants high in THC. This product is illegal in the UK, unlike CBD oil which is produced from hemp plants.
A non-psychoactive cannabinoid and an analog of CBN. Trace amounts of CBDv are found in the Cannabis sativa plant.
Cannabinoid receptors that form part of the endocannabinoid system. CB1 receptors are concentrated in the brain, central nervous system and some other organs.
Cannabinoid receptors that form part of the endocannabinoid system.
CB2 receptors are believed to regulate inflammation and are found in cells associated with the immune system.
Delta 8 is a THC compound that shares an identical chemical formula but is structured differently. Its effects are similar to THC, albeit less potent.
Delta 10 is a THC compound that shares an identical chemical formula but is structured differently. The rearranged structure creates new pharmacological properties, and it is generally considered less potent than Delta 8 and 9.
A liquid used in a vape device, often flavoured with other cannabinoids and terpenes.
Protein compounds (e.g. anandamide) produced in the body. Endocannabinoids bind to the same brain receptors (CB1 and CB2) as cannabinoids.
A biological system that maintains homeostasis in all animals. The ECS regulates sleep, pain, appetite, memory, mood and inflammation.
The process whereby a combination of cannabinoids produces greater effects than an isolated molecule.
The naturally occurring cannabinoids and terpenes in a CBD oil. Unlike broad-spectrum, full-spectrum CBD products include all the cannabis plant’s cannabinoids, including the main psychoactive component, THC.
A substance that acts upon the central nervous system to alter brain function. The alteration of brain function can cause changes in mood, perception and behaviour.
A method of CBD consumption where users hold the e-liquid under their tongue to absorb the active ingredients.
The main psychoactive component of the cannabis plant. THC causes the high associated with recreational cannabis use.
Aromatic oils that give cannabis plants (and others) their specific aromas and taste. Over 120 cannabis terpenes have been identified and exist in varying proportions in different cannabis strains.
A product or method that requires direct application to the skin. Topical products focus on the area of application and do not cross the bloodstream. Topical products include creams, balms, lotions and ointments.
A device used to heat a plant substance for inhalation. The relatively low temperature ensures no plant material is combusted and only the active ingredients are inhaled (e.g. CBD).
A product that can be dissolved in water.
An electrical component that converts e-liquid into a vapour. Commonly referred to as a coil.
The volume of air inhaled with each drag. Loose airflows produce more vapour, while tighter airflows focus on flavour.
Advanced Personal Vaporiser, commonly referred to as a mod. Mods have larger units with replaceable batteries and variable voltages or wattage, depending on the make.
A safety feature that prevents the battery from overheating. Automatic Shutoff is common among most regulated e-cigarettes.
A vape pen that doesn’t have a button. The device recognises when the user inhales.
The central component of a vape device. This term typically refers to vape pens that don’t have a replaceable battery.
The ratio of propylene glycol to vegetable glycerine in e-liquid.
A new generation mod supported by a box-shaped battery. Box mods give the user control over everything from temperature to wattage and voltage, plus extended battery life, larger tanks, and better vapour.
A disposable atomiser that holds e-liquid.
A vape pen that resembles a tobacco cigarette.
A combined cartridge and atomiser. Most are transparent and allow vapers to measure the e-liquid level.
Vapers seeking a device that produces thick, dense clouds.
The cloud-like vapour produced with each puff.
A metal tool used for rebuilding coils.
Essential component that heats or vaporises the e-liquid.
A custom-made mod.
Custom-made vape e-liquid.
A removable mouthpiece included with some vape pens.
Putting liquid onto the coil instead of in a cartridge.
A drag of a vape pen with a burnt coil.
A vaping method where vapour is inhaled into the lungs by taking a deep breath.
A liquid solution containing propylene glycol and vegetable glycerine and sometimes nicotine.
A vape device with an atomiser that connects directly to the battery. There are no 510 connections.
The light on the vape pen that glows when it’s in use. They also indicate battery life; most flash rapidly when the battery is running low.
LR causes vape devices to produce more vapour but reduce battery life.
A rudimentary device with a battery and a switch. Mechanical mods often lack standard safety features and should be handled with care.
The amount of nicotine in one millilitre of e-liquid.
An advanced vape device compatible with several vape tanks. Mods enable users to customise their vape experience via settings such as cloud production and flavour.
A vaping method that mimics smoking. Vapour is drawn into the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs.
A mod with adjustable voltage settings.
An e-liquid that doesn’t contain nicotine.
A form of nicotine used in e-liquids. It is easily absorbed and provides a smooth throat hit, like smoking.
The resistance of a coil used in an atomiser. The typical ohms range is 1.5 – 3 Ohms. A lower ohm generally gives a harsher throat hit and a warmer vape but can reduce battery life. A high ohm will have the opposite effect.
One of the two base substances used in e-liquids. PG adds flavour and gives a well-rounded throat hit.
Tanks or atomisers that enable vapers to rebuild their coils and wicks. Mainly used by experienced vapers.
A vape device with safety features that prevent overheating.
A coil/atomiser that can be rebuilt. Unlike RTA’s, the liquid is dripped directly onto the wick.
A coil/atomiser that can be rebuilt and used in a standard tank.
A package with all the essentials needed to start vaping, such as a vape pen, charger and e-liquid.
A container that holds the e-liquid. Tanks are larger versions of clearomisers and thus contain more liquid.
The sensation of vapour hitting the user’s throat.
The second base substance used in e-liquids. VG gives a smooth throat hit and produces large clouds.
The ability to control a vape pen’s voltage.
The ability to control a vape pen’s wattage.
A piece of cotton or fabric in the cartridge that absorbs e-liquid.